I have a family history of Breast Cancer, Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma, Colon Cancer, and I am a 5 year Lung Cancer Survivor. October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and many programs like the Oprah Winfrey Show will continue to highlight this cancer. While this information is so important, next month is Lung Cancer Awareness Month and we very seldom hear or see any TV programs highlighting the importance of Lung Cancer Awareness and prevention. Yet, behind Breast Cancer, Lung Cancer is the second cause of cancer deaths in women!

My oncologist and I discussed this fact once again and he said that one of the reasons Lung Cancer does not have the same funding and awareness is that there are not as many survivors still living to drive the cause. When I was diagnosed with Stage III-A Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer, I was told that five year survivorship is approximately 10%. I know that I am still hear by the grace of God, prayers, excellent medical care at M. D. Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, TX and the support of my husband, family, and friends. I am committed to bringing attention to this cancer and prevention. There is so much more to my story, however, little space. Next month, I will be working on raising money and attention for Lung Cancer research and to help patients who need funds for prescriptions, transportation, etc. I am also working on bringing attention to prevention in all groups but especially African Americans who have a high mortality rate. I also want to create an environment of HOPE for ALL people and that cancer is not automatically, a death sentence. I pray that Oprah, The Oprah Winfrey Show and your viewers will join me in discussing Lung Cancer next month during Lung Cancer Awareness Month.